Keith Hackett stunned by ‘nailed-on penalty kick’ in Sunderland vs Leeds: ‘Wow’
Keith Hackett was bemused that Sunderland weren’t awarded a penalty against Leeds.
Sunderland maintained their unbeaten home run with a 1-1 draw against Leeds United on Sunday, though they were perhaps fortunate to do so.
Given the fact that Sunderland had seven players missing for the encounter, and were by far the worse of the two sides in the second half, it cannot be overstated just how big a point that could prove to be.
However, the day could have been even signficantly for Sunderland, with Hackett convinced that they should have had a penalty.
Brian Brobbey could have been awarded penalty vs Leeds
Sunderland looked dangerous every time they went forward against the Whites, with Brobbey playing a crucial role when holding the ball up, especially in the opening 45.
Not only did the Dutchman hit the bar after a neat cross from Adingra, but he also found himself racing through on goal in the first half, only to see his effort cleared before it even reached the line.
However, as Brobbey struck the ball, Lucas Perri collided with the Sunderland forward, though shouts for a penalty were waved away immediately by referee Tony Harrington.
VAR checked and cleared the incident, but Hackett was adamant that a penalty should have been awarded.
Speaking exclusively to Mackem News, he said: “Wow, the goalkeeper has clearly fouled the Sunderland player, it is a nailed-on penalty kick.
“The goalkeeper has committed a clear foul on the Sunderland forward. Therefore, in law, a penalty kick.“
Leeds encounter makes January priority come clear
Sunderland have been solid defensively all season, but with Dan Ballard absent through injury and Reinildo away on AFCON duty, their lack of depth there was exposed.
Dennis Cirkin had a debut to forget in the Premier League, while the Black Cats lacked the aerial dominance that they usually have when Ballard is playing.
The Wearsiders made it clear that they wanted to sign Jhon Lucumi in the summer, and after a defensive mishap against the Whites, that should be one of the areas they need to strengthen in January.
That, alongside more attacking quality that can impact a game.
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